Large Antique Dhow Model Boat

Large wooden model of Dhow boat. Circa 1880-1910. Purchased in Doha, Qatar (2011) from an octogenarian pearl diver who used this boat as his storefront sign. Mostly original with a small number of replacement planks on hull and conservation done to rigging. Hand-made. 

The boat measures 61". stem to stern, beam is 17”, and height from base of stand to main mast is 50”. This is significantly larger than model dhows built today, which seem to be about 40”.

This particular ship was outside the shop of an old pearl diver who now sells pearls and jewelry. It wasn’t in great shape and he was reluctant to sell it. It was the only antique ship model in the entire market.

This was a main shopping market in Doha. They sell spices, textiles, jewelry, trinkets, fruit and vegetables , and “antiques “. Dotted throughout the alleys are shops with craftsmen who still make these models. They sit cross-leg on the floor and carefully build each ship using piles of sticks and a small saw. They hammer each plank to the ribs using wire nails.

Weight: 20 lbs.

Dimensions: 62" x 18" x 50"